Julia Child had gained a bit of notoriety as one of the co-authors of the seminal "Mastering the Art of French Cooking" in 1961, but it was the launch of this award-winning series in 1963 that turned her into a household name and, perhaps, America's favorite TV cooking personality. With a high-pitched voice and somewhat playful demeanor, Child cheerfully prepared recipes that most viewers probably thought were too difficult for them to attempt. As a result, generations of home chefs everywhere soon developed the confidence and skills to whip up all dishes French, from a simple croissant to the classic boeuf bourguignon.

Julia Child had gained a bit of notoriety as one of the co-authors of the seminal "Mastering the Art of French Cooking" in 1961, but it was the launch of this award-winning series in 1963 that turned her into a household name and, perhaps, America's favorite TV cooking personality. With a high-pitched voice and somewhat playful demeanor, Child cheerfully prepared recipes that most viewers probably thought were too difficult for them to attempt. As a result, generations of home chefs everywhere soon developed the confidence and skills to whip up all dishes French, from a simple croissant to the classic boeuf bourguignon.